Immigration
can be a tough time for many people. It might be hard to find opportunities to
meet new people or to get to find new friends. However, by making the most of
festivities and celebrations, it could be relatively easy to help ease yourself
into your new surroundings.

As an
immigrant to a new country it is a good idea to immerse yourself into the
community and join in with local events. While Halloween is often thought of as
an American celebration, it seems the Canadians really enjoy October 31st
too, and for new immigrants, joining in the Halloween fun would be a great way
to introduce yourself to your new neighbourhood.

A new poll
by Scotiabank shows that the majority of Canadians will be taking part in
Halloween related events. However, they will go a little carefully and will
only spend approximately $70 each on average. Residents in British Columbia plan
on spending a little more – approximately $82 – while people in Atlantic Canada
won’t be spending as much and will only plan to spent $51 on Halloween on activities.

Many adults
plan on taking their children trick or treating, which presents a great
opportunity for people new to Canada to introduce themselves to their
neighbors. However, it seems that with times still being tough for a lot of people
financially, many Canadians are being a little bit careful when it comes to
Halloween spending, and they have spent time saving ahead of the occasion.

Mike Henry,
Scotiabank Senior Vice President and Head of Retail Payments, Deposits and
Lending, had this to say about Halloween spending:

"There
is no trick to having enough cash on hand for Halloween.”

"To
avoid ghoulish Halloween expenses, Canadians might want to consider
using banking products that offer cash back like the Scotiabank Momentum VISA
card, or that help you save while you spend like Scotiabank's Bank the Rest
program."

Another
aspect of Halloween celebrations in Canada include the number of parties
planned. 8% of adults plan to go a party, and again, this offers an ideal
opportunity to people who have newly immigrated to Canada to get to know
people.

Canadian
adults aged from 35-44 are the most likely to take their children out to go
trick or treating on Halloween. This would provide another opportunity for new immigrants
to Canada to participate in a community activity and get to know the local
people.